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Crispy Eggplant Air-Fryer Rounds are a delightful and healthy twist on a classic favorite. As health-conscious eating trends continue to rise, many home cooks are seeking ways to enjoy their favorite dishes without compromising on flavor or texture. The air fryer has emerged as a game-changing kitchen appliance that offers a solution to this dilemma. By circulating hot air around food, the air fryer provides that coveted crunch we all love, but with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods.

Crispy Eggplant Air-Fryer Rounds

Discover the joy of making Crispy Eggplant Air-Fryer Rounds, a healthy and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. This easy recipe highlights the versatility of eggplant, known for its unique texture and impressive nutritional profile. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, it's a must-add to your meals. Perfectly seasoned and air-fried for a delightful crunch, these rounds can be enjoyed as a snack or paired with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy a delicious and guilt-free treat today!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds

1 cup all-purpose flour

3 large eggs, beaten

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Olive oil spray or cooking spray

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Marinara sauce (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Eggplant: Begin by salting the eggplant rounds to remove excess moisture and bitterness. Place the sliced eggplant in a single layer on a baking sheet, generously sprinkling both sides with salt. Allow them to sit for approximately 30 minutes. After this resting period, rinse the rounds under cool water to remove the salt, then gently pat them dry using paper towels.

    Set up the Breading Station: Prepare your breading assembly line using three shallow dishes. In the first dish, combine the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper. In the second dish, pour in the beaten eggs. For the third dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs together with the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and an additional pinch of salt and pepper.

      Bread the Eggplant: Take each eggplant round and dip it into the flour, ensuring to shake off any excess. Next, immerse the floured round into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra liquid to drip off. Finally, coat the eggplant in the panko mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the coating adheres well to the surface.

        Air-Fry the Eggplant Rounds: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Once heated, arrange the breaded eggplant rounds in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding (you may need to cook them in batches). Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray; this enhances crispiness.

          Cook Until Crispy: Air-fry the rounds for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. They should be golden brown and crispy when done. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

            Serve: After cooking, remove the crispy eggplant rounds from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top adds a lovely color contrast and freshness. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious crispy eggplant rounds!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: For a striking presentation, serve them on a rustic wooden board with a small bowl of marinara sauce in the center for dipping, garnished with extra parsley.